tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54213698861667230382018-03-06T00:08:00.861-08:00Napoleons, Nargles and knitting needlesPaige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.comBlogger61125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-67332460498562317632012-04-20T17:28:00.000-07:002012-04-20T17:28:04.336-07:00Feeling Funky?<div style="text-align: center;">Hello Friends!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Culinary school isn't always chocolate and smiles. To other students here at the CIA this is abundantly clear and laughably obvious of a statement, but to other people it can be a curious thing to say.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">But it can really get stressful, and even I feel down from it sometimes. Some classes are worse than others, and I made it out of the worst so far; Individual Production Pastries.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">Sounds fun, right? Well, not so much. More like boot-camp, only with more crying and blood.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">But regardless of feeling like a blubbering mess, I improved tenfold in the class, and in hind-sight wouldn't want it any other way.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">So if little old happy-go-lucky-me can feel like a completely different person from stress, I can't help but wonder how not so optimistic people deal. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I'd like to share how I pulled out limping but not entirely wounded from the toughest three weeks so far in school.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Firstly, don't feel ashamed that you are struggling. The old cliche holds true, different people find challenges in different things. It's perfectly OK if you feel like the only one having trouble. It may look that way to you, but I promise that you're not alone. Ask someone who looks like their doing well if they would help you, they will be flattered and you will be supported!</div><div style="text-align: center;">If you deny that you are having trouble, you'll never fix it. Meditate on exactly why you are feeling down- do you feel like no matter how hard you try you're only alright? Do you not enjoy what you are doing? And more importantly- <b>what can you do about it?</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Secondly, make time to do something you truly enjoy. You might not even want to do anything fun because you are so stressed out, but make yourself wake up early, have a gorgeously indulgent breakfast, and have a few laughs with your favorite television show or spend some time with a new book. It will help.<br /><br />Next, do something brave. This can be anything from asking someone out on a date or extricating yourself from a negative situation. Take on something like a position writing for your school paper or snatch up a leadership role in a club. It can be big or small, but if it gets those nerves rattling, and holds promise of some really good end results, go for it! The adrenaline will boost your mood like you would not believe!&nbsp; What do you have to lose?<br />And always remember, this too shall pass. <br /><br />Lastly, call your family. Plain and simple!<br /><br /><br /><br />How do you get out of a funk?<br /><br />An abundance of love,<br />Paige <br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> </b></div>Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-18384225402185759602012-04-19T19:11:00.000-07:002012-04-19T19:11:29.488-07:00Things I love Thursday!<div style="text-align: center;">Getting a little Galadarling.com up in here!&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">She's one of my very favorite bloggers, and I feel that she would be flattered and delighted by my sharing in her weekly gratitude.</div><div style="text-align: center;">So this week I am wildly joyful over...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--I9uP4WSDJ4/T5DDsxDxsQI/AAAAAAAAAY4/wO7KHHrHiho/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--I9uP4WSDJ4/T5DDsxDxsQI/AAAAAAAAAY4/wO7KHHrHiho/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;Hearth breads!</div><div style="text-align: center;">I am having a complete blast in this class. The Chef who teaches it is wonderful; he's extremely mellow and gentile and makes you feel like you can do anything. Also, he spoils us with tasty goodies.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m51zgjB4zT0/T5DEHgEupaI/AAAAAAAAAZA/-cXS03a1qUg/s1600/Carrots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m51zgjB4zT0/T5DEHgEupaI/AAAAAAAAAZA/-cXS03a1qUg/s1600/Carrots.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The Slow Food weekend I have planned!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Saturday my dear friend and I are going on a farmers market run, then Sunday we have an Earth day festival to help out at, and Monday is hiking day. Too much fun.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AgGfHuG9x0U/T5DEruPPd_I/AAAAAAAAAZI/OsBJhaW9IS8/s1600/xx.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AgGfHuG9x0U/T5DEruPPd_I/AAAAAAAAAZI/OsBJhaW9IS8/s1600/xx.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">All of the wonderful new CDs I bought this weekend!</div><div style="text-align: center;">I went a little crazy at the record store and came out with albums by The Shins, Foster the People, and Band of Horses. Let the jamming commence.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">*** </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tL4Ha3pT0cA/T5DE-3YQsiI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/xyA9lXcEeQ8/s1600/yes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="278" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tL4Ha3pT0cA/T5DE-3YQsiI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/xyA9lXcEeQ8/s320/yes.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Everything has been going my way lately, I am blown away from joy!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Also, I passed my practical exam (six hour test, oi vey) and bought some great new books about farming which make me itch to go WWOOFING. But more on that later!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">What has made you joyful today?</div><div style="text-align: center;">An abundance of love,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Paige</div>Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-44826495117035708312012-03-24T14:25:00.000-07:002012-03-24T14:25:54.793-07:00Going slow on the farm!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fCV2pakrwlY/T244doylzCI/AAAAAAAAAXo/GBNnMArs22I/s1600/CIMG7921.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fCV2pakrwlY/T244doylzCI/AAAAAAAAAXo/GBNnMArs22I/s320/CIMG7921.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Hello friends,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Today I took a trip down to Sprout Creek Farms to pick up some goodies for the Slow Food Flower and Garden trip tomorrow. Because it is an educational farm, they welcome visitors to wander all over and pet the animals, it's delightful!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_r49Yd9WD-M/T244iDwuZxI/AAAAAAAAAXw/nPGreBdwyEY/s1600/CIMG7922.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_r49Yd9WD-M/T244iDwuZxI/AAAAAAAAAXw/nPGreBdwyEY/s320/CIMG7922.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The flowers on the property were stunning! The whole place smelled wonderful.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sx_REzo4w-s/T245PDtGSYI/AAAAAAAAAYA/I6lIDySa1K0/s1600/CIMG7936.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sx_REzo4w-s/T245PDtGSYI/AAAAAAAAAYA/I6lIDySa1K0/s320/CIMG7936.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Look at this sweetie.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A0rTuB6DSGY/T245U1sFA3I/AAAAAAAAAYI/DPUT3Zj3dPE/s1600/CIMG7930.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A0rTuB6DSGY/T245U1sFA3I/AAAAAAAAAYI/DPUT3Zj3dPE/s320/CIMG7930.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The animals were so friendly, you could tell that they are all very well loved, they came right over to say Hello. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SBKvk5ch2_o/T245bWZY72I/AAAAAAAAAYQ/rs9HpF3VoZQ/s1600/CIMG7932.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SBKvk5ch2_o/T245bWZY72I/AAAAAAAAAYQ/rs9HpF3VoZQ/s320/CIMG7932.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_C2Fv7qEiN0/T245hAnOSyI/AAAAAAAAAYY/Ab_uyorowHs/s1600/CIMG7939.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_C2Fv7qEiN0/T245hAnOSyI/AAAAAAAAAYY/Ab_uyorowHs/s320/CIMG7939.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mBXLrT0a6mo/T245pMBpN1I/AAAAAAAAAYg/UKNbpLVKgo8/s1600/CIMG7937.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mBXLrT0a6mo/T245pMBpN1I/AAAAAAAAAYg/UKNbpLVKgo8/s320/CIMG7937.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g1xndGVSrGw/T245w4Rut1I/AAAAAAAAAYo/d_QYphjiTjI/s1600/CIMG7944.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g1xndGVSrGw/T245w4Rut1I/AAAAAAAAAYo/d_QYphjiTjI/s320/CIMG7944.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d0iSUwN4pe0/T244lYQNqFI/AAAAAAAAAX4/00XrnOoBBgQ/s1600/CIMG7923.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d0iSUwN4pe0/T244lYQNqFI/AAAAAAAAAX4/00XrnOoBBgQ/s320/CIMG7923.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0x3otBB3PgE/T246UV7PTpI/AAAAAAAAAYw/LM5FGFGe1iI/s1600/CIMG7950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0x3otBB3PgE/T246UV7PTpI/AAAAAAAAAYw/LM5FGFGe1iI/s320/CIMG7950.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">From the market that the farm has, we bought two cheeses for the trip; one soft goat cheese and one harder cow's milk cheese. Then, because I can not resist local goodies, I bought some oatmeal cakes for myself (SO good!) as well as some Hudson Valley chocolate milk and perfect Apple pie granola. I can hardly think of a better way to spend a Saturday morning than roaming a gorgeous farm with a wonderful friend and some great snacks. We got to chatting with some of the people who worked there, and they let us in on a little secret- there is a bar around town which has line dancing lessons on Wednesday nights. I know what we're doing next weekend!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here's hoping that we have a good turnout for our Slow Food trip to the flower and garden show tomorrow! Anyone keeping a garden? I'd love to hear about it!</div><div style="text-align: center;">An abundance of love,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Paige </div>Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-72565007641283663352012-03-23T19:44:00.000-07:002012-03-23T19:44:50.185-07:00A collection of tasty treats to share.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Hello Friends,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Please forgive the absence, but I have been keeping myself terribly busy between class and clubs lately. I have, however, snapped a few photos of some of the things I've been induing in. For example-</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zseS4WIx3Ko/T20yerReLDI/AAAAAAAAAW4/j0x1zgiXmKo/s320/CIMG7824.JPG" width="320" />&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Coffee, Butternut squash, and Gingerbread macaroons from Apple Pie Bakery Cafe! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Jepzdpcwzs/T20yhc90-VI/AAAAAAAAAXA/6aFePwB_5zI/s1600/CIMG7904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Jepzdpcwzs/T20yhc90-VI/AAAAAAAAAXA/6aFePwB_5zI/s320/CIMG7904.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Brioche Pecan-Sticky Buns! (Also from APBC)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UPQNZwJKN7w/T20ylNrcSTI/AAAAAAAAAXI/aCYNw_cIpbI/s1600/CIMG7907.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UPQNZwJKN7w/T20ylNrcSTI/AAAAAAAAAXI/aCYNw_cIpbI/s320/CIMG7907.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Tiramisu and Chocolate mouse, courtesy of a class called Individual Production Pastries (IPP). </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o8kV448W1Nk/T20yqk0VeWI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/oQkNWqYOehk/s1600/CIMG7908.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o8kV448W1Nk/T20yqk0VeWI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/oQkNWqYOehk/s320/CIMG7908.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Another, because they are too wonderful for just one shot.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nRgcZ7OJvII/T20yvKX01YI/AAAAAAAAAXY/E4kT5FeOENc/s1600/CIMG7911.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nRgcZ7OJvII/T20yvKX01YI/AAAAAAAAAXY/E4kT5FeOENc/s320/CIMG7911.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">A glorious brownie bite that was hiding in the mousse cup!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rHy6A0320Tc/T20yzI9Ak_I/AAAAAAAAAXg/2XvWimwpAqI/s1600/CIMG7913.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rHy6A0320Tc/T20yzI9Ak_I/AAAAAAAAAXg/2XvWimwpAqI/s320/CIMG7913.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">And finally, from the first day of my classical cakes class, puff pastry apple tart!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">What have you indulged in lately?</div><div style="text-align: center;">An abundance of love,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Paige</div>Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-71100864540551048582012-03-05T18:21:00.000-08:002012-03-05T18:21:24.110-08:00Excitement, Excitement!<div style="text-align: center;">Hello friends,</div><div style="text-align: center;">I have a lot of really exciting news.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">Firstly, we got nearly 70 signatures for the graduation pledge!&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WdQqH_SX05Q/T1Vylg1Hx6I/AAAAAAAAAWY/GRJtuylqaqI/s1600/yay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="95" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WdQqH_SX05Q/T1Vylg1Hx6I/AAAAAAAAAWY/GRJtuylqaqI/s320/yay.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I spent the weekend at home. Which was entirely splendid. While I pretty much sat on my butt for two days straight it was glorious just being with my parents and watching silly things on the television. We also went to a pretty cool almost-antique shop and ate donuts.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LR3SHww0szs/T1VyyNzDhaI/AAAAAAAAAWg/KhJ-NmyVscA/s1600/donuts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LR3SHww0szs/T1VyyNzDhaI/AAAAAAAAAWg/KhJ-NmyVscA/s1600/donuts.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I got to interview <i>two </i>people for the school paper this block, instead of just one. Every three weeks my school has a graduation, and there is always a speaker there who I am lucky enough to have a nice chat with. But last week there was an Associates and a Bachelors graduation, so that meant two different speakers! Homaro Canutu of <i>Moto</i>, <i>Future Foods</i>, and<i> Cantu Designs- </i>and Jeffrey Kmiec of <i>The Greenbrier.</i> How cool! (Keep your eye peeled for the new issue of La Papillote for my piece!)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Also, I had emailed Harney and Sons about taking the campus tea club to their headquarters for a tour and tasting, and I heard back from them! Meeting with the appropriate party this week to get everything squared away.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oolX0sGjJS0/T1VzG2EfScI/AAAAAAAAAWo/fXt9Efck9f8/s1600/Harney+and+Sons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oolX0sGjJS0/T1VzG2EfScI/AAAAAAAAAWo/fXt9Efck9f8/s1600/Harney+and+Sons.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And finally!&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">I handed in my training agreement for Restaurant Daniel! Oh happy day.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WxNggY2d0qQ/T1VzYcCavLI/AAAAAAAAAWw/XFtOLNp0sng/s1600/danielb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WxNggY2d0qQ/T1VzYcCavLI/AAAAAAAAAWw/XFtOLNp0sng/s1600/danielb.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I have so much to be joyous about. Tomorrow I start a new class; Basic and classical cakes. Sounds like a blast! I've heard really great thing about the Chef who teaches it, too. A little intimidated, because I do not really know anything about making beautiful cakes, but I suppose that's why I'm in the class!&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />I really just want to dance in circles and give people flowers, I am so filled up with happiness!</div><div style="text-align: center;">I hope that you are feeling just as magical.</div><div style="text-align: center;">What brought you glee this weekend?</div><div style="text-align: center;">An abundance of love,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Paige</div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div>Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-50617527113105423182012-02-27T17:22:00.000-08:002012-02-27T17:22:01.644-08:00Have fun, always.<div style="text-align: center;">Hello friends!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I count myself lucky in that I <i>love </i>going on job interviews. I know that this makes little sense coming from someone as introverted as myself, but I think it is so much fun. You get the chance to learn about some really great organizations and businesses, all the while learning poise under pressure and effective speaking. Because I know that job interviews are something that a lot of people struggle with, I thought that I would give y'all a little something to nibble on!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">- Practice your handshake. Nothing puts me off more than a lame handshake. I know that you hear this all of the time, but a good handshake is warm, engaged, and firm. Grasp the person's whole hand, shaking only their fingers or not applying some pressure come across as disinterested and yucky. Also, make eye contact with the person while shaking their hand, ideally while thanking them for meeting with you. Which leads me directly into...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">- Make eye contact! I know that it is easy to get nervous, but talking into your lap is unprofessional. And believe it or not, it is actually easier to answer questions thoroughly when looking at the person who asked you. Looking away or at your feet will make you want to ramble.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">- Speak with the intention of answering the question. When you have accomplished that- stop talking. Even if there is a pause where they are not asking the next question, if you have answered, resist the ramble! That is when you say something that causes you to kick yourself later. Answer thoroughly, then stop. If their is a pause that causes you discomfort, ask them if your answer made sense, or say something like, "Did that answer your question?".<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">- Remember their name, and use it when you say goodbye. Instead of saying "Thanks for your time" and leaving, try "It was great to meet you, Mr. Potter. I'm looking forward to speaking with you further!". </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">- Read up on the company, and ask specific questions tailored to what you have learned. Your interviewer should open it up for you to ask your questions near the end of your interview, run with the chance! This will help to open up a dialogue rather than a Q&amp;A, and will also let them know that you care enough about the company to do your homework. Ask the interviewer about their experiences as an employee of --. What projects are they particularly proud of?&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">- Avoid bright colors or loud prints (unless relevant to the job, of course. As in a fashion magazine), opt for neutrals, you want the interviewer to focus on what you are saying, not what you are wearing.&nbsp; Same thing applies to makeup. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">- Ask a friend to proof read your resume, and re-write your cover letter for each place you are applying. Email it to them a few days before your interview with a quick message thanking them for their time.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">- Do not be afraid to let your personality through! All day the interviewer is hearing people tell them what they think they want to hear, so being genuine in your responses will be refreshing. It will also make you feel more comfortable.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">- If you are not feeling calm and put together, just remember that the person interviewing you is only a person too. It is easy to feel nervous and like you need to impress them, but you are also deciding if the company is right for you, it's not a one way decision. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">- Send the prospective employer a letter <i>in the mail</i> thanking them after the interview. It will make you stand out, just be sure to keep it professional. Remind them who you are, what time your interview was, and include your contact info with a brief sentence or two inviting them to get in touch should they have any questions about your resume or cover letter. You could also send it to human resources, if they helped you out. In my experience, HR folks are complete angels who work incredibly hard but get little recognition. They are there to support you, and to match up the right candidate with the right position, which is a lot easier said than done. So do not neglect them.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">- If you are offered the job, but have decided that it is not for you, do not leave them hanging. If you need more time to think- ask for it! But do not just ignore them, it is unprofessional and insincere. Just as you want a prompt response, so do they. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">A brief list for now, but I hope that helps! If you have any questions I am happy to help. Good luck job hunters- you are brilliant! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />An abundance of love,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Paige</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-9206800422270302502012-02-24T08:29:00.000-08:002012-02-24T08:29:54.843-08:00Graduation Pledge!<div style="text-align: center;">Hello dearies,</div><div style="text-align: center;">My wonderful friend Katlynn and I have taken on a project through<i> Slow Food</i> that we are simply thrilled about, and I'd like to share it with you!&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">I mentioned Slow Food in a previous post, but as a refresher it's a club which aims to address sustainability, fair trade, organic, and community concerns. They do some excellent work, and one of my favorite professors is the adviser, so I'm having a blast! This project that we took on is called the Graduation Pledge and what we are trying to do is get a booth at graduations where we can sign people up for the pledge. What the pledge is, is a symbolic gesture which says that you will keep sustainability and locality in mind when you're out in the culinary industry, and you'll think about recycling and reducing waste as much as possible.&nbsp; We are making little green ribbon pins to give to the graduates who sign it, and Katlynn has made beautiful wallet cards with the pledge printed on them. I love this project, and am so excited about it.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">This is a national organization, and tons of colleges around the country are participating- and although it is only a symbolic gesture, it gets people thinking about being environmental, and everyone starts somewhere! </div><div style="text-align: center;">I am so excited about this project, and our first day will be next Thursday for the AOS graduation, then Friday for the BPS. We are working really hard to get the word out around campus, and I really hope that people respond well to it!</div><div style="text-align: center;">If it sounds like something you'd be interested in, have a look at their webpage. This organization is non-profit and trying to do the right thing, it means a lot to me and I can't wait to get started. </div><div style="text-align: center;">http://www.graduationpledge.org/</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">What small steps have you taken to care for the earth? And if nothing yet, what would you like to do?</div><div style="text-align: center;">I hope that you are feeling brilliant and beautiful.</div><div style="text-align: center;">An abundance of love,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Paige</div>Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-11105499795534955322012-02-14T07:35:00.000-08:002012-02-14T07:35:14.895-08:00A Saturday of most splendid proportions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B3cTYXwkwLQ/TzpxSQWZEQI/AAAAAAAAAWE/pQcIc-lhNI8/s1600/daniel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B3cTYXwkwLQ/TzpxSQWZEQI/AAAAAAAAAWE/pQcIc-lhNI8/s320/daniel.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo most sneakily stolen from the whereabouts of the google machine.</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Where to even begin?</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Well, my dear friends and most ravishing beauties,&nbsp; I had the complete honor of spending the day at the three Michelin Starred, and most entirely breath-taking <i>Restaurant Daniel.&nbsp;</i></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I spoke briefly in my previous post about what a stage<i> </i>is, and the sort of place that <i>Daniel </i>is, but for those looking for a more detailed edition of the same story, I await the platform to pontificate.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I arrived at the restaurant around 1:45 in the afternoon, and found my way into the security box that all employees pass through before entering. I introduced myself to the security guard and explained that I would be spending the day with the pastry team. He then called the Executive Pastry Chef; who apparently had no idea that I would be staging. Well, naturally that sent a chill through my hopes of having a good day- I immediately placed myself in the position of being an intrusion and a burden to the busy team. However, as soon as I was placed at a station to begin removing small chocolate cakes from their molds I was treated not only as a welcomed set of hands, but a equal and a team member.&nbsp;</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">The people that I worked with were so inspiring. They were fast, talented, helpful, and made me feel like I was appreciated and understood.&nbsp;</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">It was hugely moving to know that I was contributing to something that would be served at <i>Restaurant Daniel.</i> After spending a few hours helping out in the kitchen, assembling various petit-fours (small one or two bite pastries with intense, decadent flavors and rich luxurious textures) I was invited up onto the pastry line. I nearly fainted for the chance. Now, keep in mind a small flaw- I have never worked a line before.&nbsp;</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">What "working the line" means, is plating, assembling, and otherwise taking care of dishes to order. So the ticket comes out, and you get it done as quickly as you can.&nbsp;</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">It is terrifying. But the rush is unbelievable, and once you get in the groove it is a blast and a half.&nbsp; So I was put in charge of the Madeleines. Every guest is given them after dessert, while the little goodies are still hot and snugly tucked into a linen basket. It is beautiful, everything at the restaurant is immaculate.&nbsp;</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WCaXlfpKFJE/Tzp-6LLpRRI/AAAAAAAAAWM/h1yuhu6LjME/s1600/madelines.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WCaXlfpKFJE/Tzp-6LLpRRI/AAAAAAAAAWM/h1yuhu6LjME/s320/madelines.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Not the Daniel Madelines, just an image snatched from google </span></i></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">While I was working hard not to make a fool of&nbsp; myself in front of such talent, kind souls delivered a seemingly never-ending stream of delicious treats for me to try! I first was given a yummy double-baked potato while I was still in the main pastry kitchen, then once upstairs on the line, a stunning plate of raviolis manifested as well as a simply spectacular dish of hand made pasta, along with various other small delights. And of course, I got to taste all of the petit-fours.&nbsp;</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">When my shift was over, and I was chased out of the kitchen, I went down to thank the Pastry Chef for letting me play in his kitchen...and he offered me the position.&nbsp;</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I scarcely know how I kept myself standing and breathing.&nbsp; It nearly brought tears to my eyes. I was so overwhelmed and honored that I think I looked something like the people on television do when they are told "you've won a brand new car!". So, in my gaping fish-mouthed awe, he told me to give it some thought and to email him in a few days.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Unreal.&nbsp;</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I wish that I had words for how much that meant to me.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">When I was waiting for my dad to pick me up, I was happily sitting by myself with a big goofy smile all over my face, when the pastry team passed by and noticed me. And would you believe me if I told you that they stayed and waited with me for nearly 20 minutes so I would not be on my own? That was so touching and beautiful. What kind people! For a place of such high regard they could have treated my stage as slave labor, and completely abused me and I probably would still feel lucky for the chance; but instead they respected me as a member of the team, and allowed me to meaningful work that contributed to the restaurant, and then even spent a few minutes getting to know a little about me.&nbsp;</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">People like that are rare, and I am blessed to have come across them. To someone not in the culinary industry it may not seem like a big deal to be treated with respect and kindness on an unpaid, unofficial, "first day" of sorts, but believe me- it really is. &nbsp;</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I am so filled with love, inspiration, and honor by the whole situation. Even if I was not offered the position, I would still be proud to have been there for the day.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">So, I suppose there are two morals to my story; the first- be kind to everyone. Strangers, new kids, those above you and below, old friends, everyone. Because you have no idea how much it may mean to them. &nbsp;</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">And the second- believe that you deserve your dreams. Never sell yourself short. I came close to asking for a stage at a different restaurant in the Boulud empire because I never thought in a million years that the team at <i>Daniel </i>would think I was good enough to even spend the day. I have no experience in fine dining, and limited experience in pastry. But I chose to have fun and to do my best, and when I decided to believe in myself, this opportunity strolled right over and curled up in my lap purring.&nbsp;</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">You deserve the best. And I know that if you wholeheartedly want it, and work your tail off, you will get it.&nbsp;</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">What is your dream position, and what are you doing to get it?</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">An abundance of love,</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Paige</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">&nbsp;</span> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span></div>Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-68404253239121034472012-02-08T16:25:00.000-08:002012-02-08T16:25:28.124-08:00A splendid weekend, indeed.<div style="text-align: center;">Hello friends.</div><div style="text-align: center;">This weekend I am going on my very first "stage", which is where you go to a restaurant and work a shift to see if you and the establishment will be a good fit for one another. Sometimes you just tour around and watch, helping clean and taking care of small things; and other times you are assigned products to make and are set out on your own. It can really go either way, so I am trying just to relax and have fun with it.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">Which would be much easier to do if the place wasn't as garganuienly, pristeinely fantastic as it is.</div><div style="text-align: center;">My very first stage experience is going to be at <i>Restaurant Daniel.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">We are talking three Michelin stars. Reputation of perfection. Daniel Boulud. HOLY COW.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I am so excited! I simply can not wait.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Even if I am not offered the position, it will be an honor just to be in that kitchen.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1XFdQZkys0M/TzMPXH4e07I/AAAAAAAAAV0/XW4CBUmfw44/s1600/danielb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1XFdQZkys0M/TzMPXH4e07I/AAAAAAAAAV0/XW4CBUmfw44/s1600/danielb.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">But anyway, I digress.</div><div style="text-align: center;">The reason that last weekend was so splendid was because my parents took me into Manhattan to walk to the restaurant that I will be staging in this weekend- so that I would know how to get there and all. So after a simply gorgeous stroll around the park and down to <i>Daniel, </i>we went to one of Chef Boulud's other places. His bakery! Oh boy. My Dad and I have gone before, but we wanted my Mom to have a chance to check it out. Let me tell you, these pastries were immaculate. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Of course, I forgot to bring my camera with me, so I snatched these pictures from google.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s8fIvOvcUvA/TzMPZMN8rWI/AAAAAAAAAV8/gSRMsp5YOMs/s1600/boulud.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s8fIvOvcUvA/TzMPZMN8rWI/AAAAAAAAAV8/gSRMsp5YOMs/s1600/boulud.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I can go on, and on, and on about how inspirational and beautiful Epicerie Boulud is. But you really need to visit it and see for yourself. Take a look at the webpage, you can also get to <i>Restaurant Daniel </i>from there. So, so wonderful.</div><div style="text-align: center;">http://www.danielnyc.com/epicerie.html</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Daniel Boulud came to my school for the Bocuse d'Or culinary competition preliminaries, and while I did not get the chance to meet him myself, I heard some of the most heartwarming stories about his interactions with the students. He is a superhero to us, and he certainly did not let any of us down. Hundreds of pictures of him with students popped up on facebook after the event, and in each one he was wearing the biggest, most endearing smile, with his arm around their shoulder.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">***</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Have you ever gotten the chance to shake your hero's hand?&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">If not, who would you like the chance to meet and thank?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">An abundance of love,&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">Paige</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-35454458488518661712012-02-05T19:38:00.000-08:002012-02-05T19:38:02.398-08:00Tasty, healthy dinner!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YUCkRCYAnW4/Ty9KB41MTfI/AAAAAAAAAVk/4rM6GkxLnFs/s1600/100_0045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YUCkRCYAnW4/Ty9KB41MTfI/AAAAAAAAAVk/4rM6GkxLnFs/s320/100_0045.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Hello Friends,</div><div style="text-align: center;">This weekend has been perfectly splendid, but more on that later dearies!</div><div style="text-align: center;">For dinner today, I made a beet and goat cheese salad, and Mushroom Brown Rice Pilaf.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yoa-lZIJj4o/Ty9KD8a5ZXI/AAAAAAAAAVs/B-C-t5zoxGs/s1600/100_0046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yoa-lZIJj4o/Ty9KD8a5ZXI/AAAAAAAAAVs/B-C-t5zoxGs/s320/100_0046.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Both Vegetarian, loaded with vitamins, veggies, and fiber, and so tasty!</div><div style="text-align: center;">What did you have for dinner?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">An abundance of love,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Paige</div>Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-16390943792829986062012-02-01T08:52:00.000-08:002012-02-01T08:52:28.452-08:00Eat slow, babe!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Last night I had the pleasure of going to a meeting of the Slow Food club. What Slow Food tries to do is support eating local, seasonal, and fair trade produce. It's all about supporting the people in your community who are making exceptional products, with an undercurrent of organic and bio-dynamic farming. It is heavily focused on produce and farming, but it also goes into other areas of the culinary industry, with wines, cheeses, olive oil, and even vinegars!</div><div style="text-align: center;">They plan a lot of trips to farms and craftspeople in the Hudson Valley, two coming up are going to be to a farm for a cheese-making class, and to Vinegar maker for a tour and chat.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">The people in this club work really hard to get out the idea of slow food, so I was thrilled to make it to a meeting. I'm hoping to be able to get more involved.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-seH_QL2T3kw/Tylp6PycNDI/AAAAAAAAAVc/5rPojiPw8Ug/s1600/slowfood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-seH_QL2T3kw/Tylp6PycNDI/AAAAAAAAAVc/5rPojiPw8Ug/s320/slowfood.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The Slow food group at my school is a college chapter, and they are all over the world. If it is something you think you may be interested in I highly recommend checking out their webpage. They are trying to get people away from processed, unhealthy foods and lifestyles- and are doing a really great job teaching people how to take steps toward sustainability.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">I really believe in this club, and am excited to see what I can do to help!</div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;http://www.slowfoodusa.org/</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">***</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />I am making pierogies in Cafe Savory today, very excited. Hoping to grab a big, beautiful spinach salad before class. Yesterday I got quite a treat in finding strawberry cheesecake set out during lunch, it was simply divine! </div><div style="text-align: center;">I am spending this weekend at home with my parents, I can not tell you how excited I am! Friday can not come quickly enough.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">How are you spending this weekend?</div><div style="text-align: center;">Also, what clubs would you like to be involved in?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">An abundance of love,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Paige </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-55661563393699973042012-01-31T08:47:00.000-08:002012-01-31T08:47:26.267-08:00In the absense of onions.<div style="text-align: center;">Yesterday I got myself all sorts of thrilled about the prospect of whipping up some brown rice pilaf with green onions and toasted pecans in Cafe Savory Productions class. Be still my beating heart! It's such a simple recipe, so I wasn't really worried about it...that is until I sadly discovered that we had no Spanish onions in the kitchen. No big deal though, my team and I placed it on the supplemental form and away it went. So we prepped all of&nbsp; the other ingredients, but could not begin because the first thing we needed to do was sweat the onions. So we waited. And waited. And our onions never came! Oh I was so sad. We made some pasta dough for something to do but my heart was heavy from the lack of pilaf-y goodness.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">So today, it is my mission to acquire my onions so that pilaf may be had.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">***</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">In writing class we finger-painted, which was a great deal of fun. That professor is a hoot.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">*** </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />While I would simply adore to dim the lights, curl up in bed with a big mug of tea, and spend the day reading my collection of Sherlock Holmes adventures, and possibly knitting some stitches of my mittens, I sadly must complete my prep-work for class.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">So do tell me:</div><div style="text-align: center;">If you could blow off all prior engagements and just stay home, how would you spend your day?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">an abundance of love,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Paige</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div>Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-29269392278260178402012-01-30T06:07:00.000-08:002012-01-30T06:07:34.920-08:00Some mornings simply set you up for a splendid afternoon.<div style="text-align: center;">And this morning was certainly one of those.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">Yesterday I was visited by a bit of a cold, so after a great deal of green tea and orange slices I took to bed early in hopes of chasing away the sniffles. That means, of course, that I woke up bright and early this morning, feeling fit as a fiddle! So after bundling myself up in my cozy lace cowl and doubling up on socks I took to the chilly morning air and made my way up to Roth Hall for a spot of breakfast.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">For perfect company I took too, my volume of Sherlock Holmes adventures.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">My dear Sir Arthur Conan Doyle; you may be one of my new favorite authors. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E3MFJ-wC-jA/Tyagw2iRlpI/AAAAAAAAAVU/KB1vT8yPpDU/s1600/sir+arthur.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="249" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E3MFJ-wC-jA/Tyagw2iRlpI/AAAAAAAAAVU/KB1vT8yPpDU/s320/sir+arthur.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">His writing is so beautiful, but more than that his stories are arresting and his characters are so personable. His wit and bright sense of humor stare up at you from the pages, and while I had meant to get through perhaps the first half of a story, I tore through the entirety of <i>The adventure of the Empty House</i>.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">My breakfast too, was completely delightful. I had scrambled eggs with cheddar cheese, onions and mushrooms. A generous helping of home fries came along with me too, and the table which usually holds bagels and fruit was overflowing with croissants, cheesy pretzel bread, danishes, and myriad other treats for the taking. So, naturally, along with my usual smuggled banana I also cautiously slipped into my pocket book some gorgeous pastries, delicately wrapped in napkins and tucked away for safe keeping. Oh K16 breakfast, how I adore thee.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">I arrived at 6:45, and did not return to my room until 8:30 for finding such great company in my Sherlock Holmes Volume. There is something so lavish about a breakfast spent alone with a good book, lots of coffee (with half and half, of course. Come on, indulge. You deserve it.), and a beautiful plate of eggs and home fries. I love the white-noise chatter that Farq Hall affords.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">Later in the day I have Cafe Savory Productions, where I will be working on ricotta gnocchi and tomato sauce. Yummy!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">What is your ideal morning like?</div><div style="text-align: center;">an abundance of love,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Paige</div>Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-61174778447355759712012-01-30T05:39:00.000-08:002012-01-30T05:39:30.813-08:00Bocuse and Bizarre assignments;<div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;">This weekend at school was a culinary competition called the Bocuse d'Or, it was brilliant. The contestants are competing to represent the United States in an international competition in Lyon, France. Thomas Keller, Jerome Bocuse, Daniel Boulud, and Grant Achats were just a few of the giants who came to our campus for the event. There were book signings, too. I was lucky enough to make it to the Grant Achats', who I simply adore.</div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: black; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AjxZ6m9X9Fw/TyXIc0z2rQI/AAAAAAAAAVM/gzhyPrGUnBc/s1600/CIMG7897.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AjxZ6m9X9Fw/TyXIc0z2rQI/AAAAAAAAAVM/gzhyPrGUnBc/s320/CIMG7897.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;">***</div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;">I had a fairly peculiar writing assignment to do this weekend, we were excused from class for 15 minutes, and told to do what ever felt right. Then we needed to write a page about the experience. Sounds straight forward enough- right? It certainly was not for me! When I sat down to work on it, I drew a complete blank. I had no idea what to say! I went down to Farq hall, I had a mug full of tea, then I went back to class. So I decided to do what I often do with writing assignments, and bend it a little. Rather than writing about what I did, I decided to write about what I saw other people do. Oh, also I made most of it up. Don't tell!&nbsp;</div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;">Thought it might be a suiting thing to post here, as it is <i>slightly </i>(OK, not really) about culinary school:</div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.9742211815473908" style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Fifteen minutes. Disowned chairs scraped worn tile and voices chattered wildly at the prospect of momentary pardon from the 7AM course with whispers of cigarette breaks and visits to the restrooms. A girl with molten brown hair and an unassuming curl of softness at the corners of her mouth touched the arm of an unequally fulsome and haltingly tall individual, before lifting soft eyelashes to his face and inviting him for a turn about the building. A gaggle of loud and quixotic girls rushed past the rest. While the warm disjointed room, which brings to mind images of exacerbated mothers calling back caffeinated children at bowling-alley birthdays, began to drain itself of bodies- it all but sighed with relief. Non-slips pattered excitedly against the strip of tired carpeting that stretches the length of the long hallway through the fourth floor of the dim and expansive structure. The heavy and thick morning light seeped through the cracks and seams of ornate stained glass like motor oil through a seive, making the whole of the hall feel dark and brooding. Glass cases housing awards and publications drooped as the students pounded past without so much as vague curiosity, their silhouettes dully reflected by the worn ornamentation. The battered staircase scoffed at the thundering on its back while students mourned over the prospect of climbing it once more, once the minutes pass and their return to class is anticipated. As if in brigades, they passed the window, out which the Hudson River beams at them in the quiet of the morning. Should they stop, and waste their unexpected reprieve, they may be surprised by the view’s effect, and what the mellifluous river has to share. So instead, past a window, down a flight. Past a window, down a flight. Upon reaching the main floor, as if well-rehearsed players in a theatre, all in eerie unison turned to move straight back to the welcoming walls of Farqhusien hall. Some took to the coffee bar, others opted for bagels or remnants of fruit salad, but they split nearly in half. And took seats as far from the others as could be reached. The cloud of movement within the hall was slow. An exchange of thoughts was given, as the two groups mulled over the past portion of class. </span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Phones were checked as time had taken flight, and so too did the groups, past those busy working away in K16 and past the room of wines. The edge of the staircase was met with complaints and protests from the unhappy climbers. And lumbering footsteps took them back; past a window, up a flight. </span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">***</span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">What was the most bizarre assignment you've been assigned?</span></div><div style="color: black; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span>An abundance of love,</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: black;">Paige</span></div>Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-6650181822139031142012-01-29T14:45:00.000-08:002012-01-29T14:45:47.051-08:00Cozy and warm<div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">Hello friends, I wanted to share my newest knitting goodies with you!</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xvhnrml366o/TyXGyOSK4ZI/AAAAAAAAAU8/5SHW2UKd-CI/s1600/CIMG7863.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xvhnrml366o/TyXGyOSK4ZI/AAAAAAAAAU8/5SHW2UKd-CI/s320/CIMG7863.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">Isn't that yarn divine? Oh I simply adore it. My old knitting instructor gifted it to me, and it was not in its wrapper, so I have no idea what kind it is! I only had enough to get through about a third of the scarf that I had planned to make from it, so I quickly cast off near the end of the skein and whipped it into a cowl, so disappointing. It's really smooth and a dream to work with, I wish that I knew who made it so that I can buy more!</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jbvGjqN7Np8/TyXG1TV6iKI/AAAAAAAAAVE/wPamJUME8lM/s1600/CIMG7865.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jbvGjqN7Np8/TyXG1TV6iKI/AAAAAAAAAVE/wPamJUME8lM/s320/CIMG7865.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">Also, I stitched up a quick mug cozy for a friend's birthday. I love the color of this yarn, I have a great deal of the skein left over, mittens perhaps?</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">What are you working on?&nbsp;</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">An abundance of love,&nbsp;</div><div style="color: #38761d; text-align: center;">Paige.</div><div style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></div>Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-20842861873828397912012-01-25T16:23:00.000-08:002012-01-25T16:24:44.630-08:00Vegan Demo and brand new classes!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mgwnj7z9i6U/TyCWgivFKgI/AAAAAAAAAUs/ZQoz7Tx_dmM/s1600/CIMG7606.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mgwnj7z9i6U/TyCWgivFKgI/AAAAAAAAAUs/ZQoz7Tx_dmM/s320/CIMG7606.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>The Gourmet Society</i> at the Culinary Institute is always putting together great programs, they take ideas from students- what ever we would like to learn about, they pull together demos for! It is a really great club, and I would like to be involved with them. Last night their demo was vegan cooking, and oh my goodness it was brilliant. They made mashed potatoes with cashew "cream" with these wonderful Cuban sweet potatoes. They also hit them with some chipotle, so good. Then they marinaded tofu and baked it off, it was wonderful. Finally they made an Asian slaw that was simply divine. To my amazement though, I was only one of five people who came to the demo! The clubs at the CIA pull together some of the most creative and fun programs, and it breaks my heart that after all of their hard work barely anyone came. But, on the bright side, it meant that we got to have a big old portion of their dish!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">**</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">In other news, I began my new classes this week. To be completely candid, I was terribly nervous about my Cafe Savory Productions class. It is a culinary fundamentals class, I'm a baker- I don't know how to cook savory! It's amazing how different the two are.</div><div style="text-align: center;">But as soon as I met the Chef who would be teaching the course, my fears dissolved. He is kind, fun, hugely helpful, and not the least bit intimidating. He teaches bakers culinary all the time, so he does not expect us to whip out beautiful tourne potatoes and perfect charcuterie. For this, I am greatly appreciative. He even welcomed us veggies to cook up a vegetable stock so that we can have some soup, too. In our first class, he pulled out bananas and yogurt and let us have at the blender. Anyone who offers smoothies has a loyal friend in me.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">Today was the first day that we were in production for that class- so we actually cooked. He started us out slowly, my team and I worked on a chicken stock and a beef stock while slicing onions for tomorrow's French onion soup. Although I had no idea what I was doing (take away my oven mitts and I am simply beside myself) I had such a great time! He was encouraging and made me feel very comfortable asking questions, which I feel is vital for effective teaching. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I also started writing class, hazzah and hooray! My professor for that class is a hoot. I'm really looking forward to spending more time in that class.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Tomorrow I begin introduction to management, and I am hoping against hope that I have the same professor that I had for a previous class, he walked right out of a Woody Allen movie, so great!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Do tell me, who was/is your favorite teacher and why?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Love and artichoke hearts,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Paige</div>Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-70363415209994659832012-01-22T15:52:00.000-08:002012-01-22T15:52:41.515-08:00Bakers can eat healthy, too!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mvvzByHil9Q/Txyc8TKQu5I/AAAAAAAAAUk/hxMbA3Uw9oo/s1600/100_0041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mvvzByHil9Q/Txyc8TKQu5I/AAAAAAAAAUk/hxMbA3Uw9oo/s320/100_0041.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Dinner tonight is lazy and comforting; Gunpowder green tea, chilled black bean and corn salad (my favorite!) with tasty avocado and Portuguese sweet bread baked up freshly by my dad. <i>So</i> yummy.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">As the snow has yet to melt and I have one more evening at home before returning to school so I spent the day lolling around with my mom after a trip to the Hong Kong Supermarket to load up on tea.</div><div style="text-align: center;">** </div><div style="text-align: center;">Today was a day of little luxuries, so I thought I would compile a list of a few of my favorite petite treats for celebrations of the close of long stressful weeks or simply a celebration of yourself. Because no matter how busy you are, you always have time to appreciate these teeny little beauties.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">Flickering flames of decadently scented candles</div><div style="text-align: center;">Over the top teacups for sipping serendipity</div><div style="text-align: center;">That perfect pen that makes your signature look lavish and glamorous</div><div style="text-align: center;">Foofy lotions and wild perfumes</div><div style="text-align: center;">Impromptu conversations with new found friends</div><div style="text-align: center;">Munchy-crunchy toast topped with divine jam or preserves</div><div style="text-align: center;">The love and kindness of a furry friend</div><div style="text-align: center;">Warm bunny slippers on chilly toes </div><div style="text-align: center;">And quiet moments enjoyed in your own company</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">What are your favorite little luxuries, and how do you make time for them throughout your days?</div><div style="text-align: center;">an abundance of love,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Paige</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-54585728599732041482012-01-21T17:41:00.000-08:002012-01-21T17:41:54.513-08:00Reading Sherlock by the fire and eating cookies by the handful.<div style="text-align: center;">Finals are complete and I am feeling entirely overjoyed! What a stressful week, I am so glad to be through with my tests. First I had my baking ingredients test, which was a toughie but I managed a B. Then I took Nutrition, which was not that difficult, and freshman year seminar, which was an essay so naturally I had a blast. Gastronomy and BP Tech were a little rough, but I managed to do well so I am very relieved! I will really miss some of the classes that are now over. Baking and Pastry techniques is one that will leave behind a touch of disappointment in its absence. I really had a great time in that kitchen, and the Chef who taught it is so dear to me. But I do get to begin my writing class next week though, so that is something to look forward to!&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">I am fortunate enough to be writing to you from my home, my proper home! Because we have this Monday off from classes my parents came to pick me up so that we could spend the weekend together. And this morning, with dreams of big adventures clouding my mind, I looked out the window to find that snow now decorated the whole of my town! It looks mighty beautiful, but I was looking forward to going out and about this weekend.</div><div style="text-align: center;">So instead, I watched <i>Midnight in Paris</i> and drank lots of tea. In the evening my parents and I watched <i>Deathly Hallows Part 2</i> and ate way too many chocolate chip cookies.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;**</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">This past week the new issue of my school's newspaper- <i>La Papillote</i>- came out, and I nearly leapt through the ceiling when I picked it up and saw what I wrote in print;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-REU9dX8eK6Y/TxtmBwILReI/AAAAAAAAAUU/DLUdHv7YCn4/s1600/y.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-REU9dX8eK6Y/TxtmBwILReI/AAAAAAAAAUU/DLUdHv7YCn4/s320/y.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Even though I knew that they would be printed, seeing my name listed as a contributor brought me such great joy! As horribly scary as it was to begin my interviews with the graduation day speakers, I am so glad that I jumped on the opportunity, because I am really having a blast working on my articles. And seeing them as a part of the newspaper is so satisfying!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WIGSg8PfpEM/TxtmCWIxh_I/AAAAAAAAAUc/XiWp2H844tg/s1600/x.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WIGSg8PfpEM/TxtmCWIxh_I/AAAAAAAAAUc/XiWp2H844tg/s320/x.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I had another interview on Friday, right before the second half of my practical exam, and it was with Chef George Mendes, of Aldea in NYC. What a fantastically down to earth man! I have not yet finished my article, but I am happy to share it when I do. <i>La Papillote</i> is available online, so if anyone is interested in reading it I will share the link.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">For now I am thoroughly enjoying my time off from classes and hoping that the snow may subside so that I can make a trader-joe's run.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">Until next time,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Love and oolong,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Paige</div>Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-75586755118741536252012-01-16T14:16:00.000-08:002012-01-16T14:16:10.569-08:00A weekend with the Folks!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dB9IL2R1C-g/TxSdTgdgzqI/AAAAAAAAAR8/RxmktXZuwyg/s1600/CIMG7849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dB9IL2R1C-g/TxSdTgdgzqI/AAAAAAAAAR8/RxmktXZuwyg/s320/CIMG7849.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />I am most decidedly and steadfastly an enormous homebody. I much prefer hanging out with my family watching silly movies and knitting over glamorous weekends of college goings-on. So when my parents wanted to come up for the weekend, I was thrilled. I get restless on campus by myself all weekend studying and doing homework, I needed a break!<br />Firstly when they came, we had brunch at the Eveready Diner, which is simply adorable inside.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FRRnQXdJUBo/TxSdVf_nFWI/AAAAAAAAASE/WJo3Ql8CEwM/s1600/CIMG7847.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FRRnQXdJUBo/TxSdVf_nFWI/AAAAAAAAASE/WJo3Ql8CEwM/s320/CIMG7847.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />I munched on banana foster pancakes and filled my parents in on what I had been up to lately, feeling very homey as I did so from the 1950s decor!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SQFVegt8B4g/TxSdYHqVg-I/AAAAAAAAASM/2pd9iflN904/s1600/CIMG7848.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SQFVegt8B4g/TxSdYHqVg-I/AAAAAAAAASM/2pd9iflN904/s320/CIMG7848.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">After we ate we went for a tour of the Roosevelt estate, which I had been dieing to do! It was enormously inspiring, and although I am a huge history buff, I think that it would be great fun for just about anyone. My mom just so happened to be wearing her mittens that I knit for her, from a pattern written by Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt! How appropriate! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2JpVRzsaht4/TxSekspSDbI/AAAAAAAAASU/Hntwiu3vmi8/s1600/CIMG7852.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2JpVRzsaht4/TxSekspSDbI/AAAAAAAAASU/Hntwiu3vmi8/s320/CIMG7852.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We toured the main home and the library, I would love to go back and visit Val-Kill; which is open seasonally.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We also visited the town of New Paltz, where I found a store devoted to hand crafted goods. The owner was there and working on a crocheted hood, how fabulous! I had a quick chat with her and learned that she and her business partner knit and crochet all of the things sold in the store, and everything else is created by local artists. They sold loads of different things, jewelry, soaps, and YARN! Hand died, luxurious wool or cotton yarn, along with cheaper (but no less lovely) alternatives like lion brand and Caron. I was so pleased! I wish that I could recall the name of the shop; but fret not, I'm sure that I will be returning. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We ate lunch at a Turkish restaurant, which was really great. I got Turkish tea and my dad got Turkish coffee, both of which were fantastic.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vHJV4UyIHc8/TxSf3sK7mNI/AAAAAAAAASk/L0qEbye1HPI/s1600/CIMG7854.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vHJV4UyIHc8/TxSf3sK7mNI/AAAAAAAAASk/L0qEbye1HPI/s320/CIMG7854.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">It was so inexpensive too! And it was great to duck out of the cold for a moment, it was 24 degrees that day!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1D9KZosVaTA/TxSgDn7sBpI/AAAAAAAAASs/TCK9mZvYrn4/s1600/CIMG7860.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1D9KZosVaTA/TxSgDn7sBpI/AAAAAAAAASs/TCK9mZvYrn4/s320/CIMG7860.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Yummy! Huge portions, and tons of vegetarian options.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />I had no idea how perfectly I would fit in at New Paltz, loads of fair trade shops and hand crafted goodies. I have so much more exploring to do! I can not wait for it to warm up so that I can ride my bike around the town. It's not far from campus at all.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">To my CIA friends, good luck on finals this week!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Love and oolong,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Paige</div>Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-24418610236334176712012-01-09T16:26:00.000-08:002012-01-09T16:26:56.464-08:00The Old Chatham Sheepherding company<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TO91_D0n4xc/TwuFJBdSZlI/AAAAAAAAAR0/_KK3csf6dOQ/s1600/mm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="125" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TO91_D0n4xc/TwuFJBdSZlI/AAAAAAAAAR0/_KK3csf6dOQ/s320/mm.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">A dear friend and I were assigned a project for our gastronomy class on a chef named Melissa Kelly who owns Primo restaurant in Maine. It consisted of a power point presentation and an eight page essay, and while we were rooting around for information on her, we discovered that the first place she worked after graduating from our school (first in her class, certainly a mammoth task!) she became executive chef for the Old Chatham Sheep herding company bed and breakfast; which is only an hour and a half drive from our campus. Road trip!</div><div style="text-align: center;">So we loaded up the car with a few other delightful kids and took the drive through the simply gorgeous Hudson Valley to a primarily farming community called Old Chatham. We found the sheep herding&nbsp; farm, which is the largest in the United States and makes cheeses and yogurt from the sheep milk, and began to roam. We came across a man who worked on the farm and asked if we could have a poke around, to which he told us that they do not really do tours but he would be happy to show us around. Fabulous! We got to see the milking equipment and the baby barn, the sounds that those little guys make will melt your heart. Then we bought lots of cheese and went out in search of the bed and breakfast after a great deal of petting. Sheep are way too cute.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J-xvSCyV5E8/TwuDTEvDp2I/AAAAAAAAARk/b7zZG6zfPnM/s1600/cuteee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J-xvSCyV5E8/TwuDTEvDp2I/AAAAAAAAARk/b7zZG6zfPnM/s1600/cuteee.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;<span style="font-size: xx-small;">http://baby-animals-photos.blogspot.com/2011/03/sheep.html</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We could not find the address of the bed and breakfast which Chef Kelly had worked at, so when we saw some joggers we asked if they could help. Much to our chagrin they informed us that it is no longer open! But they did show us to the building, which is now a private residence. Oi Vey!&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">But creep we did.</div><div style="text-align: center;">We could not let the trip end so quickly, so we drove over to the neighboring town and had some lunch. There was a yarn shop there! Oh I almost cried when I found the sign saying that it is closed on Sundays. I have been searching for a yarn shop! But as disappointing as that was, there were some other great stores there too, we found a great health food store who had my very favorite Tazo tea, Lotus blossom.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cSIc6uFrpCk/TwuDuyiValI/AAAAAAAAARs/aURMBsd7K4k/s1600/mmm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cSIc6uFrpCk/TwuDuyiValI/AAAAAAAAARs/aURMBsd7K4k/s1600/mmm.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">http://www.amazon.com/Lotus-Decaffeinated-Green-Tea-Bags/dp/B00028PVAO/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1326154601&amp;sr=8-2</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Finally we headed to a town called Hudson, and got some gorgeous chocolates from a confectionary that we found on a doodle map of the area, so good!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">**</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I took the written portion of my baking and pastry techniques final today, as well as my knife cuts test. I think that I did alright, but only time will tell, I can't wait to get my grade!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Only one more week in this clump of classes before finals, oh goodness!</div><div style="text-align: center;">One more quick word, started a new lace scarf pattern that I found on knitpicks, it is beautiful, and it is definitely helping me not lose my marbles over all the tests that I have coming up. Thank goodness for knitting!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Love and laceweight,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Paige</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-17640798498051850682011-12-20T16:32:00.000-08:002011-12-20T16:32:23.008-08:00La dia de las Tartlets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--iopok5lmuA/TvEmBBWe3mI/AAAAAAAAARE/5tMw8IHKP_s/s1600/CIMG7808.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--iopok5lmuA/TvEmBBWe3mI/AAAAAAAAARE/5tMw8IHKP_s/s320/CIMG7808.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">What a tasty occasion!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Tart day of product rotation usually consists of linzer cookies, a linzer tart, a fruit tart, spritz cookies, and banana chocolate tarts, done in two classes; but because we were assigned the tart starion on a Monday class, we kicked the linzers for lack of time.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We began with the pate sucre (sugar dough) that we would use for our shells, and when that was relaxing in the refrigerator we worked on our butter spritz cookies. These little guys are great with a nice strong milky tea or coffee for an afternoon snack. And while people really seem to either love or hate them, I just so happen to have a great deal of affection for these baby cookie.However, I must admit that I do prefer them slightly under baked, they tend to get really dry if baked completely through. But let's keep that between friends, shall we?&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZfMvZ961L6M/TvEmFCP88yI/AAAAAAAAARc/lP67m-1funE/s1600/CIMG7811.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZfMvZ961L6M/TvEmFCP88yI/AAAAAAAAARc/lP67m-1funE/s320/CIMG7811.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We also made fruit tarts, which are made with pate sucre and almond cream baked together and topped with pastry cream and tasty fruit. They are gorgeously decadent, and should really be enjoyed in a bubble bath with sparkly champagne. But for being in a dorm room, perched happily on my bed listening to knitting podcasts will have to do.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gPEsmCw7psA/TvEmEOjXcVI/AAAAAAAAARU/TtBIzNJsL2I/s1600/CIMG7810.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gPEsmCw7psA/TvEmEOjXcVI/AAAAAAAAARU/TtBIzNJsL2I/s320/CIMG7810.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And lastly we made chocolate banana tarts, same dough for the shell, but this time we put banana slices on the bottom after they were baked and cooled, then made a banana ganache with coconut milk, dark chocolate and banana peel to pour over the slices, and topped it off with candied walnuts and a glazed banana bit. Intensly addictive!&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h2Lb6T1FMHU/TvEmChFFISI/AAAAAAAAARM/b98SQ6PJ610/s1600/CIMG7809.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h2Lb6T1FMHU/TvEmChFFISI/AAAAAAAAARM/b98SQ6PJ610/s320/CIMG7809.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">What a great day! Tomorrow is my interview with Jerome Bocuse for La Papillote I could not be more excited. It is also my last day on campus, winter break is nearly here! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Love and fuzzy socks,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Paige</div>Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-33870731552549522942011-12-18T07:23:00.000-08:002011-12-18T07:23:15.932-08:00Advice to incoming students at The Culinary Institute<div style="text-align: center;">Because we are on a block schedule, we have new batches of students coming in every three weeks. This means a number of things; for one, we have very small classes, which is really great for getting to know one another as well as getting plenty of one on one time with both Chefs and Professors. This also means that the longest that you have to be "the new kids" is less than a month. Once you're issued your embroidered whites, you're one of the culinary masses and no one is the wiser. But, there certainly are some helpful tips that can be given when you are in that three week-sweaty-palm-purgatory of orientation and first two weeks of classes.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">1- <b>Talk to people other than your room mate</b> in the first few days. I know that if you get along with your room mate it can feel almost unnecessary to branch out, but it really is easiest to make new friends while everyone is new- once you get in the swing of classes, you will be so busy that it is tough to find time to meet new people.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">2- <b>Do not be afraid of the Chefs. </b>To say that they are intimidating is a gross understatement, but they are here to help. If they did not love to teach they would not be here; so don't take them for granted. They do not expect you to be perfect, or even all that good in your first few weeks, so ask lots of&nbsp; questions. Seek advice on culinary matters, talk to them. Just be sure that it is professional. They will appreciate your interest. On that same matter,</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">3- <b>Google your Chefs.</b> You will be blown away by their accomplishments, they do not call our school the world's premier for nothing. These men and women are simply astounding, and while it can freak you out to learn what big deals they are in the industry, it is important to appreciate everything that they have done. But beware- intense hero worship may ensue.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">4- <b>Write everything down.</b> Your notes and books will be all you have to refresh your memory once you graduate. Some Chefs even encourage you to take pictures and videos of their demos. Rearrange your notes after class, make them into flashcards. Keep a log of your recipes and how they came out. write, write, write. It will not only help you to retain the information, but by keeping a small notebook in your pocket while you're in the kitchens, you will save time by not needing to flip through your binder, and you will be able to jot down pearls of wisdom dropped by the Chef. Because I have certainly learned that the best bits of advice are spouted by the Chefs when you least expect them.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">5- <b>Do not be afraid of older students. </b>They know exactly how you feel, and in almost all cases, are more than happy to help you. Everyone at the CIA is a family, we all have each others backs. I was wandering Roth Hall in one of my first few days on campus, hopelessly lost and beginning to panic, when a group of older students passed by and saw me, they stopped. One girl introduced herself and asked me what I was looking for, then she pointed me on my way and told me not to worry, the campus gets easier to navigate after orientation is through. Another day a small group of friends and I were eating dinner together and talking worriedly about our math class- an older student at the table behind us overheard and interjected. She gave us her email and phone number and told us that she works in the tutoring center, if we had any problems in class she invited us to get in touch with her, she would be happy to help us out with the material.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">6- <b>Utilize campus resources. </b>Bring your essays to the writing center, ask someone up in tutoring to go through your notes with you before a test, talk to someone in counseling, visit the meditation room, take a Zumba class, go for a swim in the pool, go to career services, and ask them to look over your resume, or to tell you about externship opportunities. These are all built into your tuition, take advantage of them.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">7- <b>Study in places other than your room. </b>The library has a fireplace, simply sitting next to it makes you want to do homework. And the lack of your laptop will make sure that you actually get something done, rather than ending up watching re-runs of Lost. Oh, and turn off your cell phone.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">8- <b>Engage in class. </b>Ask questions, and raise your hand when the professor poses a prompt. And try not to complain about the teachers, they know what they are talking about. You do not get a job at the CIA because you are well connected, the hiring process is unbelievable- ask a favorite Chef about what they went through to get hired if you'd like to hear a pretty impressive story.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">9- <b>Take time for yourself. </b>This school is hard, bloody hard. And stressful, and tiring. But wicked fun if you are up for a challenge. You're on your feet, in one class from 2-8:30, and the time that you have off, you're preparing for the next day's class. Do not let that overwhelm you, make time for yourself. Find something that gets your mind off of school, and wake up early to enjoy it. For me, it's knitting and reading, but it could be anything at all. Take an extra long shower or watch a funny movie if that is what you need to relax. It is easy to be swallowed up by the work load, so make sure that you take care of yourself. Drink lots of water, and although it is easier said than done- try to get some rest.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">10-&nbsp; <b>Go to campus events, take advantage of opportunities. </b>They are mostly free, and the ones off campus are absurdly cheep. I went to see the Radio City Christmas Spectacular for $35, including transportation. The school organizes restaurant and bakery tours for $25 and you get to visit some of the top places in the city, and talk to the team members. Not all of the events are culinary related either- free magic shows and mind readers, dances, and bingo (with prizes like Ipads and Kindles), tastings and talks with people like Danny Meyer. You will never get these chances again once you graduate.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And finally, a bonus.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Do something that is terrifying.</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">For me, this is grabbing up the opportunity to conduct interviews with the graduation speakers, then write articles for the school newspaper about them. Not too scary, right? That's what I thought, until I realized the kind of people that come and speak at CIA graduations. Martha Stuart, for example, has given a commencement speech in the past. The first person that I am to interview first is Jerome Bocuse, Paul Bocuse's son. This scares the living daylights out of me, but I am doing it because never again will I get the chance to speak with these kind of people.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Enjoy your time here, it's Disney World for foodies!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Love and chocolate,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Paige. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-85106160449634855882011-12-17T12:52:00.000-08:002011-12-17T13:50:23.408-08:00lamination station!<div style="text-align: center;">We have begun product rotation in Baking and Pastry Techniques, which means that we are assigned, as teams, to a new station every week and have a list of products that we are expected to make. For example the cut-in station will work on scones, pie dough, biscuits, things of that nature, and my team, consisting of three other lovely souls, got to do croissants, apple strip, pan au chocolate (chocolate filled croissants) and palmiers. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M8JjIyNmIC8/Tuz7LsvvvJI/AAAAAAAAAQk/WCoOCOlMXJw/s1600/CIMG7797.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M8JjIyNmIC8/Tuz7LsvvvJI/AAAAAAAAAQk/WCoOCOlMXJw/s320/CIMG7797.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The term lamination, in baking, refers to rolling and folding a fat into your dough in order to incorporate layers. It makes all of those decadently flakey-pull-apart pieces of heaven that you think of when someone says "croissant". They are labor intensive and take hours to make, but for someone like me, it is nothing but a labor of love. It is so much fun to tend to your dough, and by the end it is your little baby, because of all the time you invested in it.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ELLZJDCcGBg/Tuz73JMwkOI/AAAAAAAAAQs/QmAqs8MKGFw/s1600/CIMG7798.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ELLZJDCcGBg/Tuz73JMwkOI/AAAAAAAAAQs/QmAqs8MKGFw/s320/CIMG7798.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Lamination is really not hard at all, it just takes time and care. While you're rolling out your dough it is very important to keep track of which fold you are on, and as our Chef says, your dough must <i>always</i> be cold and relaxed before the next step. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Lamination is definitely my favorite station so far, I love love love working with doughs, they really have a mind of their own sometimes! And the final product is simply divine, I get such a sense of accomplishment after the hours invested in my dough have come to a close.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4_25fIe_RkE/Tuz8nKNIvLI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/eoEotAIeqIk/s1600/CIMG7799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4_25fIe_RkE/Tuz8nKNIvLI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/eoEotAIeqIk/s320/CIMG7799.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">These little devils are called palmiers, and they are the bane of my healthy existence. Sitting in an air of feigned innocence, they bat their eyelashes at me from across the room, tempting the healthy snack right from my mind. And I simply can not resist. But these little buggers are worse than potato chips in their "can't possibly eat just one" allure. I have a large sized zip lock baggie completely stuffed with them, let's see how long that lasts. Part of their charm is also how easy and fun they are to make. These guys are puff pastry, which means no yeast, just layers and layers of butter to give them their "puff". After giving them their folds, you completely douse them in sanding sugar, we used sugar in the raw, because it is a gorgeous color and has a molasses-y taste that is divine. Then you simply press in the sugar and roll these suckers up before slicing and baking. They are up to absolutely no good, do not let them fool you.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6N-1cJGb7-0/Tuz-BsihOnI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/JkWWJK0G2iE/s1600/CIMG7801.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6N-1cJGb7-0/Tuz-BsihOnI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/JkWWJK0G2iE/s320/CIMG7801.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Last week I was on the cut-in station,&nbsp; I made a chai-almond variety that were so perfectly tasty with a big mug of black tea.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Oh apple strip! I can not believe that I have forgotten to take a picture of it to show you!</div><div style="text-align: center;">It is a beautiful little guy, I will be posting pictures soon.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">I have a very, very exciting tidbit to share, which will be told in great detail shortly, but first allow me to conjure up some curiosity!&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">Until then, how do you feel about scones, have a favorite kind?</div><div style="text-align: center;">Love and lamination,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Paige.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-41828913461863795182011-12-13T08:31:00.000-08:002011-12-17T14:26:45.529-08:0019 big fat years;<div style="text-align: center;">December 11 was my birthday, and by a little wink of happy coincidence my school just so happened to plan a trip to New York City on Sunday! For $35 we got transportation to and fro as well as our ticket to The Radio City Christmas Spectacular! A fine birthday celebration if there ever was one.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GLJvMZolL2A/Tud5LJsy95I/AAAAAAAAAQE/CNF-iaS1Nkg/s1600/radiocity-rockettes-410.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="229" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GLJvMZolL2A/Tud5LJsy95I/AAAAAAAAAQE/CNF-iaS1Nkg/s320/radiocity-rockettes-410.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">We left school at 9am, and were in the city and just past 10. While Elf played over head I knitted happily away on a pair of mittens that I am working on and a got to see a lovely tour through the Hudson Valley. I greatly appreciated that our bus driver took us through the scenic rout, rather than just jumping on the parkway. When we got there I garnered my layers against the cold and headed into the 19 degree New York City streets. I was lucky enough to be with some fantastic gals who knew the location of the Time Square Shake Shack, so I had my first Danny Meyer experience. Oh my word, that was absurdly tasty! I got the shroom burger, oh it was so cheesy and perfect. That bun! So eggy and decadent. Also, it would be blasphemy not to get some sort of custard treat, so I got a strawberry milkshake as well, and it was absolutely delightful.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;After shake shackin' it up, with a full belly and excited spirit we headed out once more. Coming upon an enormous Forever 21 we immediately jumped on the chance for some heating and a spot to sit and rest, so while my friends shopped I warmed my bones and tried my best to resist the adorable sweaters and sparkly shoes the store was tempting me with.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The show did not begin until 5, so we had plenty of time to gallivant about time square. Let me tell you, I'm typically a snacker, I'm not too much of a big meal type of gal, besides breakfast, but that lunch at Shake Shack kept me full until after the show, which ended around six thirty. The show was, of course, fantastic, and made me want to hop on stage and try out my kicks too. Looking forward to Zumba, thanks to those Rockettes! </div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;&nbsp; The day before my birthday my parents came by for a visit, which was so nice! We tried out an Asian restaurant in New Paltz that was reviewed in La Papillote, the school newspaper. I'm certainly feeling that Christmas Spirit, and simply can not wait to go home and see that tree!&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UCFSImYUN6Y/Tud8-1o_nvI/AAAAAAAAAQc/-y-3oN8JOdo/s1600/christmas_cat_choir_by_maina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UCFSImYUN6Y/Tud8-1o_nvI/AAAAAAAAAQc/-y-3oN8JOdo/s320/christmas_cat_choir_by_maina.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ovvPjAG9FsQ/Tud86H3h1VI/AAAAAAAAAQU/zwmVMCzpNAw/s1600/mistletoe+cat+dog+clear.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Love and sugar plums,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Paige.&nbsp; </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5421369886166723038.post-43006759567620896762011-12-03T07:17:00.000-08:002011-12-17T14:26:29.147-08:00Mittens are hot cocoa of knitting.They are warm and welcoming and it seems no matter what age a person is, they can be comforted by a cozy pair of mittens. They bring to mind restless nights before a big predicted snow, leaning onto the windowsill longing to catch the first flake falling and planning in just what order you would like to complete the snow-day festivities. Perhaps the most joyful moment is sitting with your mom or dad, clutching a steamy tea or hot cocoa and waiting for your school's cancellation to be announced on the radio, then taking flight throughout the house to gather warm socks, scarves, and possibly the most importantly; mittens. <br />My love affair with knitting goes back farther than it seems at first glance. My elementary school best friend's mother knit constantly, and I would gaze in awe at the mittens and other goodies she pulled together. Always looking though, never touching, as they seemed so delicate and precious that to mess them would be an atrocity. It took years and years after that for me to actually learn how to knit my self, and then about two years still until I knit my first mitten. Which in fact, was yesterday!<br />Because I often take on enormous knitting projects that eat up a few months of my time, I knew that if I was going to be able to get any gifts knit up by Christmas this year they would need to be on the smaller side. And that's when I first began thinking about mittens. So, as all knitters do when in a crafting frenzy of momentous proportions, I took to Ravelry and began digging up some patterns. But as usual, the over-achiever in me wanted to ogle fair isle mittens with fancy designs or gorgeous cable patterns, so I had to calm my self down; which is, in fact, much easier said than done when needles and yarn await.<br />Then, I recalled the online knitting magazine Knitty, so I pulled up it's page and began to peruse. And there, as if waiting for me with a big old smile and a cup of tea, was a perfectly simple, elegantly retro pattern originally designed by none other than Mrs. Eleanore Roosevelt. It was meant to be. So out came the double pointed needles and away I went. I finished one in a little over a day, and although on the bigger side, I simply love it. Here is the pattern if anyone is interested, it's great if you're a beginner, and a breeze if you've been knitting for some time. I know that you will have a good time working on it.&nbsp;<br />http://knitty.com/ISSUEwinter09/FEATwin09SIT.php<br /><br />Once the busyness of Skills Verification in school subsides I'm going to get the second on the needle. I absolutely can not wait. Photos will be up shortly, and hopefully the single mitten will have its mate by the end of the weekend.<br />I hope you all are happy, healthy, and enjoying the chilly bite in the air,<br />Love and bobbins,<br />Paige.Paige Knowleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11880486503491846348noreply@blogger.com0